Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit Review

Let’s Dive into Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit

The Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit promises a simple and effective way to automate feeding for wildlife, making it an appealing option for hunters, landowners, and wildlife enthusiasts. This kit eliminates the need for complex programming, relying instead on photocell technology to dispense feed at dawn and dusk. The Wildgame Innovations brand has built a reputation for accessible and affordable outdoor equipment, and this feeder kit aims to deliver on that promise.

My motivation for exploring the Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit stemmed from a desire to improve deer activity on my property. I needed a reliable and low-maintenance solution for consistent feeding, as my busy schedule made manual feeding impractical.

Upon unboxing, the kit impressed me with its straightforward design. The galvanized steel housing felt robust, and the absence of complicated parts suggested easy setup. Comparing it to Moultrie’s Programmable Feeder and the simpler On Time Feeders Hoss Feeder, the Wildgame Innovations kit stood out for its simplicity. I chose this kit over others, hoping for a ‘set-it-and-forget-it’ solution.

My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The build quality appeared solid, and the photocell operation seemed ingenious, promising hassle-free operation.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I deployed the Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit in a clearing on my property near a well-used deer trail. Testing occurred during the early fall, experiencing a range of conditions including dry days and some light rain. The setup was exceptionally simple; attaching it to an existing feeder barrel took mere minutes.

The feeder immediately began dispensing feed at dawn and dusk as advertised. However, I noticed the feed duration was inconsistent on the first few cycles, varying noticeably from the dial setting.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of continuous operation, the Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit proved to be generally reliable, but not without some caveats. While it consistently triggered at dawn and dusk, the feed duration remained somewhat inconsistent, requiring occasional adjustments. The galvanized steel showed no signs of rust or corrosion, highlighting its durability.

Maintaining the kit was straightforward; a quick wipe-down to remove any accumulated dust or debris was all that was required. Compared to my previous experience with a timer-based feeder, the Wildgame Innovations kit offered greater simplicity but sacrificed some precision in feed timing and duration.

Breaking Down the Features of Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit

Specifications

The Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit boasts several notable specifications. It operates on a 6V battery (not included), powering a photocell electronic system. The feed range extends to 360 degrees across a 30-foot radius. The feeding duration is adjustable from 1 to 30 seconds, and the unit features a powder-coated, galvanized steel case along with a galvanized steel spinner plate.

These specifications contribute to the feeder’s ease of use and durability. The 360-degree feed range ensures even distribution of feed, while the adjustable duration allows for some control over the amount dispensed. The galvanized steel construction guarantees resistance to the elements, extending the lifespan of the kit.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit is to automatically dispense feed at dawn and dusk. In this regard, it generally performs as advertised. The photocell activation works reliably, triggering the feeder at appropriate times.

However, the inconsistent feed duration is a significant weakness. Despite adjustments, the amount of feed dispensed often varied, impacting the consistency of the feeding schedule. The kit meets basic expectations for automated feeding but falls short of providing precise control.

Design & Ergonomics

The Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit features a utilitarian design prioritizing functionality over aesthetics. The galvanized steel housing is robust and weather-resistant, while the absence of complex controls makes it easy to operate. The 2″ drop funnel is adequate for most common feeds.

The design is generally user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. However, a more precise adjustment mechanism for the feed duration would greatly improve the user experience.

Durability & Maintenance

The Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit‘s construction suggests a reasonable lifespan. The galvanized steel case offers excellent protection against rust and corrosion. With proper care, including periodic cleaning and battery replacement, the kit should last for several seasons.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove accumulated debris. The simplicity of the design reduces the likelihood of mechanical failures, further enhancing its longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit is relatively basic, offering limited accessory options. It is designed to work with standard feeder barrels and does not include any integrated accessories. While the photocell unit is not customizable in terms of feed times, the adjustable feed duration allows for some control over the amount of feed dispensed.

The kit is compatible with most 6V batteries commonly available. The use of a quality, long-lasting battery is highly recommended.

Pros and Cons of Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit

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Who Should Buy Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit?

The Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit is perfect for hunters and landowners seeking a simple and affordable way to automate feeding. It is particularly well-suited for those who prioritize ease of use over precise control. This kit is a great choice for individuals with limited time or those new to automated feeding systems.

This product should be skipped by individuals who require precise control over feed times and durations. Those seeking advanced features like multiple feed times or remote control capabilities should consider more sophisticated (and expensive) options.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality 6V battery. A solar charger to maintain battery life is also a worthwhile investment.

Conclusion on Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit

The Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit offers a straightforward and affordable solution for automating wildlife feeding. While it suffers from some inconsistencies in feed duration and lacks advanced customization options, its simplicity and durability make it a compelling choice for many users. The value proposition is reasonable, given its ease of use and robust construction.

I would personally recommend this kit to individuals seeking a basic and reliable automated feeder without the complexity of programmable timers. The Wildgame Innovations 6V Photocell Feeder Kit is a solid entry-level option for enhancing wildlife activity on your property. If you’re looking for an easy way to keep your game fed, give this kit a try.